Rebecca Otten

My career as a dental hygienist has been defined by a blend of compassion, intellectual curiosity, and a drive for clinical excellence. Early in my career, I began to approach hygiene not as a technical job, but as a gateway to understanding people and improving dental health in my community. I developed a strong foundation in preventive dentistry, patient education, and periodontal therapy. I began looking beyond the mouth, connecting systemic health, pharmacology, and behavioral factors to create more thoughtful, personalized care plans. This holistic mindset became a signature part of my clinical identity. My work with diverse patient populations strengthened my commitment to inclusivity and trauma-informed care. I became known for my ability to make anxious, marginalized, or medically complex patients feel safe, respected, and understood. That growing emotional intelligence shaped my philosophy as a clinician. Over time, my role expanded beyond the operatory. I became a natural educator, teaching patients, mentoring colleagues, and engaging the community through outreach programs. My curiosity pushed me into a deeper study of pharmacology, ethics, and evidence-based practice, sharpening my ability to critically evaluate research and advocate for high-quality, patient-centered dentistry. My experiences as a hygienist ultimately laid the groundwork for my evolution to the dental provider I am today. It gave me firsthand insight into patient needs, team dynamics, and the realities of clinical care. This insight now informs my mission to provide dental care rooted in kindness, inclusivity, and excellence.

• Education, screenings, fluoride treatments for diabetes support group
• In-service training for local nursing home staff regarding dental care for residents
• Screenings and fluoride treatments for residents at local nursing home
• School-based program, providing education, screening, prophy, sealants, and fluoride treatments for thousands of children
• Clinic based care in McDonald, Newton, Jasper, and Barry Counties.